Lowestoft, England is a beautiful and bustling coastal town.
It’s full of history, culture, and activities that everyone can enjoy.
From exploring ancient ruins to taking a boat trip, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, I’ll be taking you through 15 of the best things to do in Lowestoft.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend away, you’ll find something that will make your trip memorable.
So, let’s get started and explore the best of Lowestoft!
Visit the Lowestoft Ness Lighthouse
Visiting the Lowestoft Ness Lighthouse is a must-see if you’re in the area. It’s a great way to take in the stunning scenery and get a unique view of the coast! Located in Suffolk, England, the Lowestoft Ness Lighthouse is a Grade II-listed building that was constructed in 1874.
It is a stunning structure that stands tall overlooking the North Sea and can be seen from many miles away. The lighthouse has a wonderful history, and is a great place to explore and learn more about the area and its maritime heritage.
There are several viewing platforms around the lighthouse, which provide excellent panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding area. You can even take a tour of the lighthouse and learn more about its history and how it operates.
There is also a café and a souvenir shop, so you can pick up something to remember your visit. All in all, a visit to the Lowestoft Ness Lighthouse is an experience that you won’t soon forget!
Take a Stroll Along the Beaches
Strolling along the stunning beaches of Lowestoft offers a chance to take in breathtaking views and relax in a tranquil environment. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or a more active beach experience, the beaches in Lowestoft are perfect.
The golden sands of the south beach are ideal for sunbathing and swimming, while the north beach is perfect for beachcombing and rockpooling. There are also plenty of beach-side cafes and restaurants for a quick snack or meal.
For the more adventurous, there are plenty of watersports available, including windsurfing, kayaking, and sailing. The beautiful views of the sea and the surrounding countryside make a stroll along the beaches of Lowestoft a memorable experience.
Explore the South Pier
Take a journey to the South Pier and be mesmerised by its beauty and history. The South Pier is Lowestoft’s oldest pier and was built in 1853. It provides visitors with a stunning view of the North Sea.
Take a stroll along the pier, and you’ll encounter a variety of bird species. There is also a lighthouse on the pier, which was built in 1874. On the pier, you can also find a café and a small fishing harbour.
Visitors can take a boat trip from the harbour and explore the surrounding area. This includes the Ness Point Lighthouse, which is the most easterly point in the UK. The pier is also home to the Lowestoft Lifeboat Station, which has been providing rescue services since 1854.
The pier is the perfect place to spend the day, offering a variety of activities. These include fishing, birdwatching, and sightseeing. With its spectacular views and plenty of activities to choose from, the South Pier is sure to provide visitors with a memorable experience.
Visit the Claremont Pier
Meander down the Claremont Pier and be captivated by its beauty and history.
This pier has been a hub of activity in Lowestoft for centuries, and it’s still a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike.
The pier is a great spot for fishing, with many anglers catching a variety of fish including cod, mackerel, and bass.
The pier is home to a number of unique attractions, including a diving board, a lighthouse, and a cafe.
Visitors can also take a stroll along the pier, admiring the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area.
The pier is also host to a number of events, including the ever-popular Annual Lowestoft ‘Pier to Pier’ Swim.
The Claremont Pier is an ideal location for a day out, with plenty to do and see for all ages.
Enjoy a Relaxing Boat Trip
Enjoy an unforgettable boat trip around Lowestoft’s scenic coastline and soak up the views of England’s oldest working port.
With a variety of boat cruises available, you can enjoy a leisurely journey or even an exhilarating speedboat ride.
Every trip offers stunning views of the North Sea and the Suffolk coast, including the chance to spot a variety of wildlife including seals and seabirds.
For a truly relaxing experience, you can choose from a range of luxury vessels with onboard catering and panoramic views from the top deck.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing or an adventure with friends and family, a boat trip in Lowestoft is sure to be a memorable experience.
Tour the Lowestoft Maritime Museum
Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Lowestoft and experience the maritime heritage of the area at the Lowestoft Maritime Museum.
Located in the heart of the town, the museum is home to an extensive collection of artifacts from the area’s maritime past.
From personal items of fishermen to displays about the town’s fishing, shipbuilding, and lifeboat history, there is something for everyone to explore.
The museum also has a variety of interactive activities, such as a virtual reality experience, a touch tank, and a lighthouse to explore.
Visitors can also take part in a range of educational programs and events, as well as wander through the museum’s beautiful gardens.
Lowestoft Maritime Museum is the perfect place to learn about the maritime heritage of the area and explore the history of the town.
Spend an Afternoon at Africa Alive!
After a fascinating tour of the Lowestoft Maritime Museum, I was ready to explore more of what Lowestoft had to offer.
My next destination was Africa Alive! Located in Kessingland, this safari park is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Africa Alive! is home to a variety of African animals, including giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. Visitors can get up close and personal with the animals, as there are several walking trails and safari tours to choose from.
In addition to viewing the animals, visitors can also take part in educational activities, such as animal talks and workshops. There is also a cafe and gift shop on-site for visitors to relax and pick up souvenirs.
Overall, Africa Alive! is a great way to explore the African wildlife without having to leave Lowestoft. Visitors of all ages are sure to have a memorable experience.
Take a Picnic on the Common
Heading to the Common is the perfect way to spend a sunny summer day in Lowestoft. Located in the centre of the town, the Common is a great spot for a picnic with friends or family. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
There’s plenty of grassy open space to spread out your blanket and enjoy your food. There are also plenty of trees and bushes for shade in case the sun gets too hot. The Common is also a great place for taking walks or simply enjoying the view. It’s a great spot to bring a camera and take photos of the surrounding scenery.
With its wide open grassy areas and plenty of trees, it’s an ideal spot for a peaceful and serene picnic.
Enjoy Fish and Chips at the Lobster Pot
Nothing beats enjoying a delicious fish and chips dinner at the Lobster Pot, one of Lowestoft’s most iconic restaurants.
With an extensive menu of the freshest seafood, the Lobster Pot is a must-visit for any seafood lover.
The restaurant is located in the heart of the town, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The menu features all the classics, such as cod, haddock, and plaice, as well as more unusual dishes like kippers and smoked haddock.
The fish is all freshly caught and prepared in-house, and served with a side of chips.
The restaurant also offers a selection of vegetarian options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
In addition to the great food, the atmosphere is friendly and relaxing, perfect for a night out.
Visit the Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park
Pack your sense of adventure and take a trip to Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park near Lowestoft for a fun-filled day out. Located on the coast of Suffolk, Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park is one of the most popular attractions in the area.
The park has something for everyone, from exhilarating roller coasters to a variety of kid-friendly rides. There’s also a water park, mini-golf, and go-karting. Plus, the park also hosts a variety of shows and events throughout the year, such as live music and fireworks displays.
With so much to explore, Pleasurewood Hills is the perfect day out for the whole family. Whether you love thrilling rides or just want to relax and soak up the atmosphere, Pleasurewood Hills is sure to have something for everyone.
Go Shopping at the Royal Shopping Centre
After experiencing the thrills of Pleasurewood Hills Theme Park, why not take some time to go shopping at the Royal Shopping Centre?
Located in the heart of Lowestoft, the Royal Shopping Centre is a great place to find the latest fashion trends, the perfect gift, or just to browse.
With over 40 shops and plenty of restaurants, there is a lot to explore here.
The Royal Shopping Centre offers a wide variety of stores, including clothing boutiques, home decor, electronics, and more.
Whether it’s a new outfit or a special gift, shoppers will find something that suits their style and budget.
With a variety of eateries, from fast food to fine dining, visitors can enjoy a meal before, during, or after their shopping excursion.
Plus, the centre boasts a number of events throughout the year, from live music to charity events and more, making it the perfect place to visit for a day out with family and friends.
Explore the Ancient Ruins of Burgh Castle
Just minutes from the Royal Shopping Centre lies the ancient ruins of Burgh Castle, a fascinating reminder of the Roman occupation of Lowestoft, England.
This 4th-century castle is an important archaeological site and offers a unique glimpse into history. The ruins of the castle are spread across a large area, with walls, bastions, and moats still standing. The castle is also home to a number of artifacts, including Roman pottery, coins, and tools, providing a comprehensive overview of the Roman occupation of the area.
Exploring the ruins of Burgh Castle is a great way to spend an afternoon. Visitors can wander through the site and explore the remains of the castle walls, bastions, and moats. There are also plenty of opportunities to take photographs and admire the ancient architecture.
As the castle is open to the public, visitors can also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the natural beauty of the site.
Take a Trip to the Museum of the Broads
After exploring the ancient ruins of Burgh Castle, I decided to take a trip to the Museum of the Broads. Located in the heart of Lowestoft, this museum is devoted to the story of the Broads National Park and its unique environment.
It features a variety of interactive exhibits that provide insight into the history of the Broads. From the interactive timeline to the interactive displays, visitors of all ages can learn about the area’s history and its importance in the local area. Visitors can also explore the museum’s collection of artifacts, which include items from the Bronze Age and medieval times.
There is also an onsite cafe which serves refreshments and snacks.
The Museum of the Broads also offers a range of educational activities for children and adults. These activities include a range of talks and workshops on topics such as the wildlife of the Broads, the geology of the area, and the history of the Broads. There are also special events held throughout the year, such as the Broads Festival, which celebrates the unique culture of the Broads. Visitors can also take part in a variety of guided walks, which offer the chance to explore the area’s rich natural beauty.
All in all, the Museum of the Broads is a great place to learn more about Lowestoft’s local history and culture, and to experience its unique environment.
Spot Wildlife at the Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve
Discover the natural beauty of the Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve and spot some of the area’s abundant wildlife!
Located on the north bank of the River Waveney, the Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. It is home to over 200 species of bird, including marsh harriers, little egrets, and avocets. The reserve also boasts a variety of wetland plants, dragonflies, and water voles.
The reserve is easily accessible and offers a variety of trails and paths to explore. Whether you’re a keen bird watcher or just looking to soak in the beauty of nature, this is the perfect spot for a peaceful day out.
There are also events and activities available throughout the year. These include guided walks and talks, bird watching courses, and activities for families. So don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the wonders of the Carlton Marshes Nature Reserve!
Visit the East Anglia Transport Museum
Experience the wonders of transport when you visit the East Anglia Transport Museum!
With over 70 vehicles on display, ranging from trams to buses to trolleybuses, you can see the evolution of local transport in the region.
Get up close and personal with the vehicles and learn about their fascinating histories.
You’ll also find a range of interactive exhibits, including model railways, a mini-golf course, and a vintage fairground.
Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day out, the East Anglia Transport Museum has something for everyone.
Plus, kids go free!
So come and explore the history of transport in East Anglia!
Conclusion
Overall, Lowestoft, England is a great place to visit. There’s something for everyone, with its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and fascinating museums. The options are seemingly endless, from the Lowestoft Ness Lighthouse to the East Anglia Transport Museum. Lowestoft has it all, whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll or an exciting boat trip. It’s no wonder that Lowestoft is one of England’s most visited destinations. So don’t wait, plan your trip to Lowestoft today and experience all of its wonders!